Is it correct to deduce from the verse, "And the heaven We constructed with [Our] hands, and indeed We are [its] expander," that Allah's essence extends infinitely, based on the principle that "the Bestower of perfection is more deserving of perfection than that which is bestowed"? And does the statement of Ibn Uthaymeen—may Allah have mercy on him—that the universe in the Hand of the Most Merciful is smaller than a mustard seed, attribute a specific measure to Allah?
Contemporary scientists confirm that the universe is expanding, but this expansion will not continue indefinitely; rather, it will reach a stage after which it will begin to fold in on itself and return to its initial state. They cite the Almighty's saying: "The Day We will fold the heaven like the folding of a [written] scroll for the records. As We began the first creation, We will repeat it. [That is] a promise binding upon Us. Indeed, We were to do it." (21:104). Regarding the expansion, they cite the Almighty's saying: "And the heaven We constructed with strength, and indeed, We are [its] expander." (51:47). Moreover, the Big Bang theory is eventually met by the Big Crunch theory.
As for describing Allah Almighty and His attributes, this cannot be done through mere intellect or theoretical deduction, for the Almighty says: "So do not present examples for Allah. Indeed, Allah knows and you do not know." (16:74). This includes describing the essence of Allah Almighty as endlessly expansive. The summary regarding the issue of affirming or negating a limit for Allah Almighty is that Allah Almighty has a limit that no one knows but Him.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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